Delco Company Exceeds Permit Rights in Kanpauk Mining, Reportedly Bringing in Chinese Nationals for Tiger Repellent Operations

MyoTaw reports that the Delco company, which is conducting mining operations in the Kanpauk area of Tanintharyi Region, has brought in hundreds of Chinese nationals and is planning to operate human trafficking businesses, according to a statement released today, August 24, by Battalion (8002) of the Kanpauk Region People's Defense Force.

The statement said that the Delco mining company has been operating mining activities in the Kanpauk area since 2008, exceeding its authorized rights and operating in a disorderly manner, and that these operations have caused severe damage to the natural environment, rivers, streams, lakes, and the livelihoods of local residents.

Currently, the Delco company has brought in hundreds of Chinese nationals and, in collaboration with the military junta government, has been constructing buildings for large-scale mining operations on Kanpauk Mountain for approximately three months. It has also received information that they are planning to operate businesses involving Chinese nationals and human trafficking operators under the pretext of mining activities, the statement said.

Furthermore, the statement mentioned that preparations are underway to purchase natural gas from MOGE to grind the mineral rocks extracted from Kanpauk Mountain into powder, lay gas pipelines, and operate a gas turbine factory.

The statement strongly warned against continuing these operations, as they not only destroy the natural beauty of the forests and mountains and the ancient heritage of the Kanpauk area, but also harm the lives, property, and health of local residents.

Battalion (8002) of the Kanpauk Region People's Defense Force has warned that if the company continues its operations without compliance, all subsequent consequences will be solely the responsibility of the Delco company.